The Corbin Rotary Club meeting held on Oct. 9 at David’s Steakhouse featured guest speaker Garry Conley with Minuteman Press and the London Rotary Club, and gave the history and origin of the Rotary four-way test that is said at the end of every meeting.
The four-way test ‘of the things we think, say, or do’ is as follows: First, is it the truth? Second, is it fair to all concerned? Third, will it build goodwill and better friendships? Fourth, will it be beneficial to all concerned?
The four-way test was created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J Taylor, who wanted a concise framework to guide his company out of bankruptcy during the Great Depression.
The Rotary International adopted the test 11 years later. Since then, it has been translated into over a hundred languages.
“The Rotary four-way test provides a moral compass that encourages individuals and organizations to strive for integrity, fairness, positive relationships, and actions that benefit all concerned,” said Conley.
When speaking about the first test, regarding honesty, Conley told a story about a young boy who lied about his age to avoid a bus ticket.
“Honesty has to be taught. A two-year-old will look you in the eye and lie to your face if it’s in his best interest,” said Conley. “If you teach dishonesty, it’s going to stick with them for life.”
He concluded his presentation by comparing the four-way test to a baseball diamond.
He told a story of a player who slid into home, but was still out because he missed first base.
“All the bases are important,” said Conley.
In other business, the Rotary Club motioned for a donation of $195 to the Redhound Varsity Club, stating they make this donation annually.
The club reminded its members that their Thanksgiving dinner is scheduled for Nov. 20 and needs items for goodie bags to be given to senior citizens.
The Southeast Kentucky Empty Stocking Fund is taking applications on Nov. 14 and 24 for this year’s gift giveaway at Old Corbin City Hall, the District Courtroom, next to Corbin Fire Department, 805 S. Main St., from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day.
The program provides Christmas gifts and essentials to children from Whitley, Knox, and Laurel counties. Parents will need to bring their valid IDs, proof of income, and any necessary assistance, including their food stamp award letter and the children’s Social Security cards.
The 38th annual Empty Stocking Fund party will take place on Dec. 20 at Immanuel Baptist Church. With questions, call 606-524-6475, according to the Corbin Rotary Club’s Facebook post.
